Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal “always wanted to buy Arturo Vidal”

Arturo Vidal

Louis van Gaal has sung the praises of Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal ahead of the Netherlands encounter with Chile on 23 June.

Fielding questions from the media at Flamengo’s Estadio Gavea training facilities yesterday, the Dutch boss revealed an admiration for the former Bayer Leverkusen man, saying he always wanted to sign Vidal when the Santiago native played in the Bundesliga.

“Chile have very dangerous players,” he told reporters.

“I always wanted to buy Vidal when he was at Bayer Leverkusen but he went to Juventus.

“I like a lot of Chile players and they always play an attacking style. It will be difficult for the Netherlands but we have confidence in the three games we have to play.”

As it transpired, Vidal elected to switch leagues and join Juventus in Serie A for a reported €10.5 million and has since developed into one of Europe’s most sought after midfielders.

Although Vidal is not thought to be a current target for Van Gaal, Manchester United have been linked with a quartet of possible signings, including former charge Bastian Schweinsteiger.

Meanwhile, Robin van Persie picked up a groin injury during Oranje’s friendly win against Wales on Wednesday. However, Van Gaal is optimistic that the United striker can shake if off before the World Cup commences next week.

“Van Persie has a groin injury but he can deal with it, so it looks ok.

“I think he’s good. He trained with us but it was a light training session. We have to see tomorrow.”

Arturo Vidal completed 56% of his take-ons last season.